Travelling to Bilbao by ferry and wondering whether you really need a car to explore the city? The answer is: absolutely not. In fact, Bilbao is surprisingly easy to get around without one.
Whether you prefer travelling by bus, tram, metro or simply on foot, everything is well organised, affordable and often much more relaxing than dealing with parking in the city centre. In this blog, we’ll explain the easiest and smartest ways to move around Bilbao.
Walking through the city centre? Absolutely!
Bilbao’s city centre is compact and easy to navigate. Highlights like the Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town (Casco Viejo), the City Hall and the Nervión River are all within walking distance of each other.
If you enjoy strolling through lively streets, discovering boutique shops or wandering around beautiful squares like Plaza Nueva, walking is definitely the best option. Plus, you’ll soak up the city’s atmosphere much more this way.
- Also read: Top 10 Things to Do in Bilbao
Bilbao metro: Fast and modern
Bilbao has an excellent metro system that gets you from A to B quickly and efficiently. Designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, the metro is not only practical but also a bit of an architectural gem.
With two main lines (and a third on the way), it’s easy to get from the city centre to the suburbs, shopping areas or even the beach at Plentzia. Perfect if you’re planning a day trip outside the city.
- Tip: Use the Metro Bilbao app or Google Maps for up-to-date departure times.
Trams and buses: Ideal for short distances
The green tram (Euskotren Tranbia) is a great way to see the city centre at a slower pace. It runs from Termibus station to the Guggenheim Museum, continuing along the river. Perfect if you want to take a break from walking but still enjoy the sights.
Bilbao’s city buses, operated by Bilbobus, connect almost every corner of the city. Tickets are cheap and buses are reliable.
- Handy tip: You can use a single Barik Card to travel on the metro, tram and bus. It’s available at stations and kiosks.
Cable cars and lifts to reach higher ground
Did you know that Bilbao sits in a valley surrounded by hills? Fortunately, you don’t have to hike everywhere. The Artxanda Funicular is a cable railway that takes you from the city centre to one of the best viewpoints in just a few minutes.
You’ll also find various public lifts and escalators around the city, such as in Santutxu or heading towards Etxebarria Park. Super useful for exploring without too much effort.
Cycling through the city
Bilbao isn’t quite like Amsterdam when it comes to cycling, but it’s becoming increasingly bike-friendly. There are several bike lanes along the river and modern bike stations throughout the city.
You can rent a city bike or use Bilbaobizi, the local bike-sharing system. Do note that parts of the city can be quite hilly, so an electric bike might be a good idea.
Taxis or Uber?
Taxis are widely available and operate with fixed fares. Uber is only partially available, but local services like Cabify work well. For short trips in the evening or when you’ve been shopping, a taxi can be a convenient option.
Why you can leave the car behind
If you’re arriving in Bilbao by ferry, such as via the Portsmouth to Bilbao route or the Rosslare to Bilbao ferry, you really don’t need to worry about how you’ll get around after arriving. Parking in Bilbao can be expensive and tricky, especially in the centre. By using public transport – or simply walking – you’ll save money, avoid stress and travel more sustainably. Win-win.
